Travel & IBD

If you have Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis (the two main forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease or IBD) you may find the thought of travelling daunting. A change of climate, water, or food can upset anyone’s bowels. Yet many people with IBD travel widely, both in the UK and abroad. They may go for a short break or a long holiday lasting several weeks or months. With careful planning ahead it should be possible for you to travel to most places. Before you leave, speak to your doctor about a flare-up plan. This will mean you know what to do if your IBD symptoms worsen while you are away.

This information sheet sets out to answer some of the questions that you may have when thinking about going on holiday or on a business trip. It also includes suggestions for people who have a stoma or have had surgery.